With the aim of paying homage to Indian war hero Ganju Lama – who won a Victoria Cross – a museum has been set by his family at his ancestral village of Sangmoo located in South Sikkim.

The museum which was inaugurated by the State Chief Minister, Prem Sngh Tamang, houses a life-like statue of Lama who is also known as a “tank killer” having destroyed two Japanese tanks in World War II. His uniforms, medals, souvenirs, artefacts and memorabilia connected with the brave soldier are also kept in the museum.

Praising Lama’s family for their efforts and work, the Chief Minister congratulated them for their achievement and described the establishment of the museum and the statue as a “historic event”.

Tamang also announced on the occasion that stories of Lama and other brave men and women like him will become part of the school curriculum so that students become aware of them and get inspired.

He further stated that the State Government will include the museum on the tourist map while also providing guides for the visitors.

Lama was born as Gyamtso Shangdarpa and joined the British Indian Army at the age of 17. In 1944 – two years later – he was conferred with the Victoria Cross. Following India’s Independence, Lama remained with the 11th Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army till his retirement in 1968.

He was appointed honorary ADC to the President of India for life following his retirement.

Keeping himself busy with social work, Lama later established a school in his village. He died in his village on June 30, 2000.

In his honour, a gate at Gangtok’s army complex is named after him.

Lama’s son Pema Ledya thanked the CM for inaugurating the museum and the Indian Army for helping the family in establishing it.